Native to the Central and Southern Mediterranean regions and a member of the Dill Family, parsley has been cultivated for more than 2000 years. Being used medicinally for many years before it was used as a culinary ingredient. There are two main types of parsley, curly leaf and flat-leaf Italian. Both have similar tastes and are both however the flat leaf is a bit stronger in flavor and is found to be easier to grow. The curly-leaf is often preferred for its pretty decorative appearance. The third type, hamburg root parsley is used more in the middle east and not seen much in the U.S. and Canada.

When planting parsley it is best if they are started indoors about six weeks before they can go into the garden. When transplanting into your garden, put them into a sunny spot and keep the soil damp during the season.

Although parsley was known to have a multitude of positive health benefits with many magical and unusual uses, throughout its history it was also known to have a dark side and was connected with death and the devil. Here are a few legends and myths I found about parsley that I thought were interesting.

• Parsley takes a long time to germinate, it used to be said that the reason for this is because it had to visit the devil nine times before the seeds sprouted.
• It was served with meat in order to calm the spirit of the animal
• It apparently grows best in the garden of where the female is more powerful than the male
• In Ancient Greece it was the herb which most symbolized death, it was thrown on graves of the dead
• According to old wives tales only the wicked can grow it

Over the years parsley became more and more appreciated for its medicinal values. It has Several B vitamins, Vitamin A & K, beta-carotene and contains more vitamin C then most citrus fruits. It is also full of magnesium, copper, iodine, iron, calcium and potassium. Parsley has enzymes that are antifungal and antibacterial and has been known to help boost the immune system. Here is a list of ailments it is known to help.

March – Let’s Talk About: Basil!

A member of the mint family, basil is one of the earliest known herbs and has been cultivated for over 5000 years. With over 60 different varieties, it is one of the most used herbs in cooking around the world. Basil originated in India and Thailand where it was also used medicinally as well as for cooking.

Throughout history Basil was thought to almost have magical powers and was used in many different ways by many different cultures. Here a few we thought were interesting.

• Early romans thought it caused insanity
• European lovers exchanged sprigs of basil as a symbol of faithfulness it was also placed in hands of the dead to ensure a safe journey
• Jewish folklore suggest it adds strength while fasting
• It was used for an antidote for snake bites
• In Medieval Times some believed that basil was for good and helped to cheer the spirit and clearing of the brain where as others thought basil was poisonous
• Ancient Egyptians used basil in mummies during the embalming process
• Ancient Greeks believed that to have a successful basil crop you had to shout and swear at the seeds while planting

Basil is full of iron, vitamin K and beta carotene and is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antioxidant agents. It has been used medicinally as a remedy for common health issues. Here are few of the many maladies it is said to help.

When planted it does best in a well-drained, full sun spot, it is sensitive to cold so be sure to plant after the risk of frost is over, it likes rich moist soil but will grow practically anywhere. It is said to enhance the growth of tomatoes and peppers and protect them from insects.

Don’t forget to shout and swear at your seeds when you are planting them

Recipes using Basil

Basil Pesto

It can be used in Italian recipes, tomato sauces, on pizza, chicken or fish. It also freezes well.